Song of the Day: Wooden Shjips – We Ask You to Ride

Every Monday through Friday, we deliver a different song as part our Song of the Day podcast subscription. This podcast features exclusive KEXP in-studio performances, unreleased songs, and recordings from independent artists that our DJs think you should hear. Todayâ€™s featured selection, chosen by Midday Show host Cheryl Waters, is We Ask You to Ride by Wooden Shjips from the 2007 LP Wooden Shjips on Holy Mountain.

In 2005, Wooden Shjips handed out hundreds of copies of the 10″ they had just completed, placing hopes of future success in word-of-mouth promotion. Then, the happenstance that is every band’s dream came true: Rolling Stone’s David Fricke and other notable critics got their hands on it and loved it. Through Jim Morrison-like vocals, Velvet Underground-style distortion and repetition, and an atmospheric 60’s organ, the song alternates between a slow drone and momentous freakouts. In other words, there’s little to dislike. So far this year, Wooden Shjips have appeared at numerous festivals including SXSW and NoisePop. Before the year is out, 7″ singles are expected on Sub Pop and Pollymaggoo Records. Also look for them in New York later this month at CMJ. Check out the band’s MySpace page for more updates. Meanwhile, this here’s a video for none other than We Ask You to Ride: